In a bid to protect public health, the Zambian government has destroyed over 3,000 bags of maize meal contaminated with aflatoxins, toxic substances produced by fungi.
The move comes as Health Minister Elijah Muchima sounds the alarm over the mysterious deaths of around 400 dogs linked to tainted maize-based food.
Authorities have discovered dangerously high levels of aflatoxins in half of the maize samples tested from milling companies, sparking fears of a potential health crisis.
Maize, a staple food in Zambia, is now under scrutiny due to its potential to cause liver cancer in humans. The investigation was prompted by reports of dog de@ths suspected to be caused by contaminated maize-based food.
While no human deaths have been reported, health authorities are probing the potential impact on the population.
Contaminated batches of maize meal have been recalled, but the companies involved have not been named, fueling public concern.
The Millers Association of Zambia has pledged to enhance product surveillance and investigation efforts to resolve the issue.
The government attributes the rise in aflatoxin levels to climate change and recent droughts, which have severely affected Zambia’s maize supply.
With maize providing 60% of daily calorie intake for the population, the situation has sparked widespread concern and calls for greater transparency.
